Public testimony splits: ANC chairs and businesses back zones; community groups and teachers oppose

Two distinct blocs emerged in public testimony at the committee roundtable. ANC commissioners from Navy Yard and other neighborhoods described instances of juvenile melees, property damage and a recovery of firearms; several ANC leaders said the summer pilot brought relief. Marquita Bryant, an ANC commissioner in Navy Yard, told the committee she had documented juvenile meetups that included fighting, unlawful entry and a recovered pistol and that the curfew "gave seniors and smaller toddlers a chance to enjoy outside areas without fear."

Business and hospitality representatives, including the Restaurant Association, said the curfew reduced disruption in nightlife corridors and helped staff and customers feel safer. "This is not about criminalizing youth. It's about protecting them and everyone around them," one industry representative said.

By contrast, multiple community organizations and educators—including Empowered, Life Rain and teachers from DC Public Schools—said evidence from broader studies shows little long-term crime reduction from curfews and warned of disproportionate impacts on Black and brown youth. Caroline Pryor of Empowered testified that curfew zones are "at best an incorrect theory of change and, at worst, an active danger for our young people." Educators also asked that any enforcement tool be accompanied by clear training, community notice and sustained funding for prevention programs.

Both sides urged the committee to pair any short-term enforcement authority with more robust community investments, improved notice and measurable data collection.